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WESTCHESTER, N.Y. Westchester County native Jimmy Kennedy, a defensive lineman for the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants, will return to the area April 19 for a visit with his former coaches, teachers and teammates at Roosevelt High School in Yonkers.
Former Roosevelt High School Athletic Director John Ventura said the event would be an opportunity for Kennedy to speak to the schools student body and enjoy a reunion with old friends. Kennedys high school coach, Tony DeMatteo, now the head coach at Somers High School, will join Kennedy.
We are asking Jimmy to share his experiences and advice with our students, Ventura said. Also, we expect the students to ask him questions. After the session with the students, we hope to have a reception for him in the library with former teammates, coaches, teachers and our current football team.
Kennedy, who was a member of Roosevelts New York State Class A championship football team in 1996, graduated Penn State and was the No. 1 draft pick of the St. Louis Rams in 2001 and went on to play for the Chicago Bears and the Minnesota Vikings before signing with the Giants in August 2011.
"I finally had a chance to be around my hometown this past season," Kennedy said. "It was truly a blessing to be near friends and family. I had a chance to make a impact on people around the world. I want to make a difference in people's life in Yonkers and the New York area. I have been quiet about the things I've done and what Ive been through. It's time to show and share my experiences with others."
Westchester's other representatives in the NFL are both from New Rochelle High School. Ray Rice is a running back for the Baltimore Ravens and Courtney Greene plays defensive back for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Ventura asks former players, teachers and coaches who may be interested in attending the event to call him at 914-457-4931.
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